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Lesson 5: Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land | 5.1 The Days of Evil

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Lesson 5. Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land

Lesson 5 takes us into the deep emotions of the Psalms, sung by the children of God in the midst of suffering, injustice, and doubt. In this lesson, we explore how the psalmists coped with their crises, found comfort through a change in perspective in the sanctuary, and hoped in God’s justice. These Psalms not only provide insight into the human experience but also demonstrate how faith in God’s character and the promises of God’s judgment bring comfort and hope to believers in the midst of difficulties. Let’s dive into the profound words of these Psalms and be inspired by their wisdom for our own faith journey.

5.1 The Days of Evil

Read Psalm 74:18–22 and 79:5–13. What is at stake here?
The two passages from Psalms, Psalm 74:18–22 and Psalm 79:5–13, address the sufferings of the people of Israel in the face of destruction and threat. The psalmist laments the calamity that has befallen Jerusalem and the temple, seeking understanding for the suffering of his people. Here are some key points at stake:
  1. God’s Honor and Power: The destruction of Jerusalem and the temple is seen as an attack on God’s honor. If the enemies go unpunished, it could create the impression that God is powerless or not fulfilling His commitments. The defense of God’s character in the world is at stake.
  2. Covenant Faithfulness: The psalmist acknowledges that the sins of the people have damaged the covenant relationship with God. The future and survival of the people depend on God’s merciful intervention and the restoration of the covenant. God’s faithfulness to His promises is in focus.
  3. Testimony for God: The actions of the people have repercussions on God’s testimony and reputation in the world. Wrong behavior by believers can lead others to turn away from faith. Testifying for God is crucial, and wrongful actions can have spiritual consequences.
  4. God’s Heritage and the End-Time Dimension: The people of Israel are considered God’s heritage, and there is an end-time dimension regarding the nations that will ultimately serve God. The threat against the people of Israel jeopardizes these divine promises and has far-reaching implications for God’s plan for the future.
  5. Turning Away from God through Believers’ Behavior: The psalmist reflects on how the actions of people professing the name of God can cause others to turn away from faith. Wrong actions can affect spiritual testimony and the missionary mission.
The Psalms emphasize the close connection between the actions of the people, the covenant relationship with God, God’s character and honor, and testimony for God in the world. They remind us that the consequences of actions not only affect individual destiny but also influence the people’s relationship with God and the testimony of God’s power and faithfulness.
“The honor of the Father and the honor of Christ are involved in the perfection of His people’s character” (SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 655). How do you understand this important truth, and what should it mean in your life as a Christian?
The quoted statement, “The honor of the Father and the honor of Christ are involved in the perfection of His people’s character” (SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 655), expresses a profound theological truth. Here are some aspects of understanding this statement and what it could mean for a Christian’s life:
  1. Honor of the Father and Christ: The “honor of the Father” refers to the honor of God as the Father, and the “honor of Christ” refers to the honor due to Jesus Christ as the Son of God. Both honors are closely connected and depend on the perfection of the character of God’s people.
  2. Perfection of Character: The perfection of character refers to the process of sanctification and spiritual maturity, where Christians increasingly conform to the image of Christ. This involves growing in holiness, love, righteousness, and faithfulness in the lives of believers.
  3. Communion with God: The honor of God and Christ is revealed not only through ritual acts or external forms of piety but primarily through the inner transformation of character. The perfection of character reflects a deeper communion with God.
  4. Testimony to God’s Work: As the character of believers becomes perfected, it becomes an effective testimony to God’s transformative power. Others can see the changes in the lives of believers and recognize the reality of their relationship with God.
  5. Responsibility for God’s Honor: As Christians, we bear responsibility for the honor of God and Christ in the world. Our actions and character should reflect God’s honor and draw people to Christ.
For the life of a Christian, this truth means that the pursuit of spiritual maturity and the development of a Christ-like character are not only personal goals but also directly impact the honor of God and Christ. Every step toward the perfection of character is simultaneously a step toward honoring God and Christ in the world. It underscores the close connection between individual spiritual growth and the greater divine reality. Therefore, a Christian should strive to promote the honor of God and Christ through personal sanctification and the pursuit of a Christ-like character.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-5-singing-the-lords-song-in-a-strange-land-5-1-the-days-of-evil/

Psalms – Lesson 5: Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series PSALMS with Pastor Mark Finley  |
Lesson 5.Singing the Lord’s Song in a Strange Land  |
In the captivating Lesson 5, various Psalms are examined that delve into existential themes such as suffering, illness, the apparent absence of God, and the challenges posed by the prosperity of the wicked. The authors lament the destruction of Jerusalem, personal struggles on the brink of death, profound suffering in the perceived absence of God, and the seeming inconsistency of divine promises. Despite these challenges, the Psalms emphasize faith in God’s sovereignty and the necessity of communication with God amid adversity and trials.
Memory Text: Psalm 137:4 – “How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land?” 
Content:
5.1 The Days of Evil
The Psalms reflect the theological struggle between good and evil. The destruction of Jerusalem is considered a divine scandal, giving the heathens a reason to blaspheme God. The Psalmist acknowledges that the sins of the people have damaged their relationship with God and emphasizes the need for God’s merciful intervention to restore the covenant. Defending the character of God in the world is crucial, as only through the salvation of His people is His name justified and praised. This principle holds true today, as our actions influence not only ourselves but also the God we profess.
5.2 At Death’s Door
Psalms such as 41, 88, and 102 convey intense prayers for deliverance from illness and death. The Psalmist describes physical weakness, social isolation, and existential despair. Some Psalms recognize that innocent suffering can be part of life, while others point to the connection between sin and illness. Despite accusations against God, the Psalms cling to a deep faith that holds onto God’s love and redemption even in challenging times. These texts emphasize that God’s sovereignty over suffering and redemption provides hope, especially when viewed in the light of the suffering of Christ.
5.3 Where is God?
Psalms like 42, 63, 69, and 102 bear witness to the deep sorrow of the Psalmist due to the apparent absence of God. The isolation from God is felt as thirst in a dry land and a fear of death. The Psalmist feels alienated and compares themselves to lonely birds. Nevertheless, the Psalmists choose not to remain silent in the face of God’s silence. Their faith in prayer remains unshaken, knowing that God, though seemingly absent, is still the living and gracious God. The Psalms teach that communication with God must continue amid trials, as God will not remain silent forever.
5.4 Has His Promise Failed Forevermore?
Psalm 77 depicts the emotional rollercoaster of the Psalmist, who calls out to God in deep sorrow. The remembrance of God’s past actions evokes not only comfort but also questions about whether God has changed or might break His covenant. The apparent absence of God leads to sleepless nights, yet the Psalmist overcomes this phase, realizing that God’s assurances are not in explanations but in the confirmation of His faithfulness. The Psalmist’s conclusion emphasizes the mysterious and sovereign ways of God, often incomprehensible to human eyes.
5.5 Lest the Righteous Be Tempted
Psalms, including 37, 49, 94, and 125, deal with the prosperity of the wicked and the difficulties it poses for the righteous. The wicked thrive, despise God, and oppress others, creating a perplexing problem for the Psalmist. Psalm 73 focuses on the injustices of the world, but the Psalmist finds comfort when led to the sanctuary, recognizing that God’s sovereign rule changes the perspective on the end times. The Psalms teach that spiritual insight and trust in God’s sovereign plan are necessary to overcome the challenges of the world.
5.6 Summary
In Lesson 5, various Psalms are explored, addressing existential themes such as suffering, illness, the apparent absence of God, and the challenge of the prosperity of the wicked. The authors of the Psalms lament the destruction of Jerusalem, personal struggles on the brink of death, deep suffering in the perceived absence of God, and the apparent inconsistency of God’s promises. Despite these challenges, faith in God’s sovereignty and the necessity of communication with God amid suffering and trials remain.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/psalms-lesson-5-singing-the-lords-song-in-a-strange-land-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Spirit of Prophecy | Pastor Ted Wilson

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Everyone enjoys receiving gifts. Whether it be for a birthday, holiday celebration, or as an unexpected act of appreciation, gifts demonstrate that the giver cares for the one they are giving the gift to. Throughout the course of history, the greatest gift-giver of all is God.
In this video, Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, explores Gifts of the Spirit found in 1 Corinthians 12 and takes a deeper look at one gift in particular–the gift of prophecy.
He also answers questions like: What is prophecy? How does it benefit the Church? How can I tell if someone is a true prophet? Is the gift of prophecy relevant today?
Want to know more?
For a detailed look at what the Seventh-day Adventist Church believes about the Gift of Prophecy, visit https://www.adventist.org/gift-of-prophecy/ 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/spirit-of-prophecy-pastor-ted-wilson/

Adventist News Network – January 26, 2024

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Adventist News Network – January 26, 2023  |
This week on ANN:  |
On this 2023 retrospective episode of ANN International, ADRA celebrates 40 years of humanitarian commitment with a legacy of justice and global aid in emergencies.  |
A church in Albania witnesses spiritual growth and transformation through baptisms.  |
Also, Seventh-day Adventist Church unveils the proposed ‘I Will Go’ Strategic Plan for 2025-2030.  |
Stay tuned as ANN brings you these captivating stories and provides coverage of other global news.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/adventist-news-network-january-26-2024/

Lesson 4: The Lord Hears and Delivers | 4.6 Summary

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4.6 Zusammenfassung
Die Psalmen betonen Gottes Zuflucht und Hilfe für diejenigen, die ihr Vertrauen in ihn setzen. Während sie den Glauben stärken, müssen wir vorsichtig sein, Psalmen richtig zu verstehen und nicht falsche Hoffnungen zu wecken. Gottes Macht zeigt sich am deutlichsten im Gehorsam und Vertrauen auf seine Güte, wie es am Kreuz offenbart wurde.
Die Lektion 4 “Der Herr hört und errettet” hat direkte Relevanz für unser Alltagsleben und unseren Glauben. Sie zeigt, wie die Psalmen als lebendige Ausdrücke menschlicher Emotionen und spiritueller Erfahrungen eine Quelle der Inspiration für unseren persönlichen Glaubensweg sind. Hier sind einige Verbindungen zu unserem Alltagsleben und Glauben:
  1. Emotionale Ausdrucksmöglichkeiten: Die Psalmen bieten uns verschiedene Möglichkeiten, unsere Emotionen vor Gott auszudrücken. In guten und schlechten Zeiten können wir durch Gebete und Lobgesänge eine ehrliche Verbindung zu Gott herstellen und Trost sowie spirituelle Stärkung finden.
  2. Vertrauen inmitten von Widrigkeiten: Die Betrachtung des Vertrauens zu Gott trotz Widrigkeiten ist äußerst relevant. In unserem Alltag stoßen wir auf Herausforderungen, Unsicherheiten und Schwierigkeiten. Die Psalmen ermutigen uns dazu, trotz dieser Umstände Vertrauen in Gottes Fürsorge zu entwickeln.
  3. Reflexion über göttliche Verheißungen: Die Diskussion über die Diskrepanz zwischen göttlichen Verheißungen und menschlichem Leiden regt dazu an, tiefer über die Natur des Glaubens nachzudenken. Im Alltag können Zweifel und Unsicherheiten aufkommen, aber die Psalmen erinnern uns daran, dass Gottes Handeln nicht immer nach unseren Vorstellungen verläuft.
  4. Beziehung zu Gott vertiefen: Die Psalmen bieten uns eine Struktur, um unsere Beziehung zu Gott zu vertiefen. Sie lehren uns, in guten Zeiten auf Gott zu vertrauen, um in schwierigen Zeiten festen Halt zu finden. Dies hat direkte Auswirkungen auf unseren täglichen Glaubensweg und unser Streben nach einer tieferen spirituellen Verbundenheit.
Zusammenfassend zeigt die Lektion, dass die Psalmen nicht nur historische Texte sind, sondern zeitlose Ausdrücke des menschlichen Glaubens und der Beziehung zu Gott. Diese können uns im täglichen Leben Orientierung geben, uns ermutigen und uns helfen, unseren Glauben in verschiedenen Lebenssituationen zu leben.
Frage für ein Gespräch:
Wie können wir unter allen Umständen uneingeschränktes Vertrauen in Gott entwickeln (z. B. Ps 91,14; 143,8.10; 145,18–20)? Was kann uns veranlassen, dieses Vertrauen zu verlieren? Warum ist das Vertrauen zu Gott in guten Zeiten entscheidend, um zu lernen, ihm auch in schlechten Zeiten zu vertrauen?
Um unter allen Umständen uneingeschränktes Vertrauen in Gott zu entwickeln, können wir uns an bestimmten Prinzipien orientieren, die in den genannten Psalmen erwähnt werden. Psalmen 91,14 betont, dass diejenigen, die an Gott festhalten, von ihm geschützt werden. In Psalmen 143,8 und 143,10 wird die Bedeutung des Vertrauens und des Gehorsams gegenüber Gottes Führung betont. Psalmen 145,18–20 unterstreichen die Nähe Gottes zu denen, die ihn rufen und ihm vertrauen.
Vertrauen kann durch verschiedene Faktoren verloren gehen, darunter Enttäuschungen, schwierige Lebensumstände, Zweifel oder Sorgen. In guten Zeiten zu Gott zu vertrauen ist entscheidend, da dies die Grundlage bildet, um auch in schlechten Zeiten auf sein Vertrauen zurückzugreifen. In guten Zeiten lernen wir die Treue Gottes kennen, was uns in den schwierigen Phasen unseres Lebens die Gewissheit gibt, dass er uns nicht im Stich lassen wird. Daher ist das Vertrauen zu Gott in allen Lebenslagen von grundlegender Bedeutung für eine tief verwurzelte Beziehung zu ihm.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-4-the-lord-hears-and-delivers-4-6-summary/

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